What is Rakugo?

Rakugo, a traditional form of performing art, dates back to the end of the 17tth century. It is a popular and unique form of comic monologue in which the storyteller creates an imaginary drama through episodic narration. The stories reflect traditional concepts and values which remain meaningful and entertaining today.

The performer sits on his knees while performing. He sits on a small mattress and acts out the whole story alone. The Rakugo performer wears a Kimono (traditional Japanese clothes) and sometimes wears a Hakama ( a pair of long wide pants) with or without the Haori
(a formal jacket).
A Rakugo performer is usually equipped with a Sensu(fan) and Tenugui(hand towel) which aid the performer express and act out the story. For example, the fan can be chopstick, cigarette, scissors, pipe or pen.

The performer plays the part of several characters in a single sketch, the challenge lies in switching from one distinct character to another by changing voice, facial expression, mannerism and speech. Each character represents exaggerated aspects of the human personality.

An aspiring Rakugo student has to ask a popular Rakugo performer to be his mentor. He usually lives in the Master's house and does everything that the Master orders. He takes lessons in story telling, dance, and playing musical instruments. He must learn everything by following the Master. All the training is verbal, no written text is used.

The Rakugo performer apprentices for three to four years with the Master. When the apprenticeship is completed, the Master gives him a name as a professional Rakugo performer. It is only with the Master's consent that a student becomes a full pledged Rakugo performer. He takes the Master's family name and one syllable from his first name. A performer's name immediately signals his artistic lineage.

There are only a few "Families" of Rakugo performers.